Friends, Issue 125 is short(ish) because sometimes life is short. During those weeks, we do our best, even when our best is someone's worst. Other weeks, our worst is someone's best, and so on. We trade ups and downs. Nobody gets out off without ‘em.
Do not fret; all is well here—just a quiet week with a calm soul. This week, I have a round-up of some of my favorite people filling various needs. Some are Bay Area-focused. Others are available remotely.
If you reach out, please tell them Simone sent you. I don’t get anything for it (except the Brain Spa), but it’s nice to make the connection. In no particular order:
Bay Area Brain Spa (also a Bay Area reco). Curious about neurofeedback and ADHD, I stumbled upon the Bay Area Brain Spa. What a gem! My unofficial description of neurofeedback is something about brain rewiring and a nervous system reboot. For sure, I’m butchering this, and you’re welcome to go down your own rabbit hole—there’s plenty to learn (and it’s not just for ADHD). The owner is wonderful. The environment is pleasing. The experience is relaxing. If you book with Brain Spa, I’d be grateful if you’d use my referral code: ss-508498. Thank you, and enjoy!
Hugo for tech. Hugo’s been helping people with their computing needs for 35 years. He’ll log onto your Mac from wherever he is and wherever you are and help you with any number of tasks. It could be an issue. It could be a question. It could be transition to a new computer. If it’s related to an Apple product, he’s your guy. He’s well versed in scams, which can be particularly helpful for older folks, though not limited to. Hugo is your easy, friendly computer guy. Everyone needs an easy, friendly computer guy!
YNAB stands for You Need a Budget. I’ve become a fan of this program since diving in earlier this year. There are copious options—Quickbooks, Mint, blah, blah, blah, but for whatever reason, YNAB caught me, and it works. I was looking for a new way to think about money because the traditional way wasn’t working for my brain. I started a free YNAB trial, watched this woman’s YouTube, and eventually hired Chelsea, a 1:1 coach, to help me get the most out of the program. All of this was happenstance, and all of it stuck. Maybe it will help you, too.
Laura Alford, ADHD coach for teens. Laura works with my son weekly over Zoom. Every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, they check in for 15 minutes—going over what’s on Owen’s plate and how he’ll get it done. It’s been a game-changer for all of us—less nagging from parents and more initiative and confidence for Owen. I don’t believe Laura has a website, but you can email her for the scoop. She’s a rockstar!
My ADHD coach, Tereasa Jones. I came to Tereasa for help navigating life and business with ADHD. Now a coach, she’s a and former psychotherapist with years of experience. She’s grounded and practical, kind and direct. With her, there’s less talking and more doing.
Liliana Manzone is a diverse learning consultant. She’ll consult with you about your child’s needs and how they can be met within their school. Navigating 504s? IEPs? Have no idea what I’m talking about? Lily advocates for students of all ages with learning differences. A former San Francisco Public School school teacher, she’s patient, kind, and super knowledgeable about the system and the kids within it. Email her, and she’ll give you all the info you need on what she can provide.
Batool for brows and makeup (a Bay Area reco). There was a time when I had a pickle guy—a guy who made exceptional pickles and mailed them to me. Now, I have a brow lady, and she’s good for more than brows. Not only can she make you look pretty, but you can purchase what she uses—like going to the makeup counter at Nordstrom, but not. When it comes to the face, she’s your lady (unless you want injectables and other un-naturals—then you’ll need a different lady).
There you have it, folks—a handful of recommendations I stand behind fully and completely, or your money back (though I’m not refunding you :) I hope there’s something helpful for you or someone you love.
I like John's work.
Happy 10th Emma!!
Wow you were expecting her when we were at Levi’s
Also I found this really helpful. My financial illiteracy often makes me feel like a partial adult